Press Releases

June8,2017

“Former Director Comey’s testimony today in the United States Senate further confirms the enormous threat posed by Russian interference with our election system in the 2016 cycle and its continued efforts around the world. This interference should deeply concern all Americans, and the need to take measures to protect our democratic system of government should span the political aisle.

“It is beyond disturbing for the President to attempt to stifle the FBI investigation into election meddling from any foreign power. It is especially alarming for this interference to take place in the midst of an investigation that is focused on actions taken by the President and his colleagues with respect to that foreign power. The Department of Justice, together with the FBI, is tasked with carrying out independent investigations, free from political interference. We must continue to carefully follow the facts, wherever they may lead us. President Trump may continue to refuse to uncover and acknowledge the truth, but the American public deserves answers.”

June1,2017

“President Trump’s withdrawal from the Paris Climate Agreement is a disastrous move that undermines the most significant global climate change agreement to date. Either the President does not understand or simply does not care about the devastating impact global climate change will bring about.

“As the world’s second-largest polluter, emitting fifteen percent of global emissions, but with only about five percent of the world’s population, the United States has a moral obligation to reduce carbon emissions. The Administration’s action also shows a disturbing ignorance of our country’s role as an international leader and a complete disregard for the proven science and consequences of a changing climate.

“With sea-levels continuing to rise, global temperatures increasing, and record droughts and fires destroying communities, it is irresponsible to abandon the international community. Across the world, extreme weather events and climate change disproportionately impact people and communities of color and those living in poverty. The United States and the international community have supported advancements in global health, stability, and democracy to combat climate change while making strides in promoting policies focused on expanding environmental justice. I have been heartened to see that combined efforts have created new jobs, increased standards of living, and lifted millions out of poverty. Now is not the time for the United States to turn its back on progress and our international partners.

“The fight to prevent a changing climate does not stop today. In response to the Trump Administration’s failure to lead, we must support the actions of our local leaders as they implement policies that prioritize improvements to public health and investments in programs that mitigate the growing dangers of climate change. I am proud to represent a district that prioritizes a sustainable relationship with nature, and I take my commitment to protecting our environment seriously. I will continue to fight for policies that allow for future generations to lead prosperous and healthy lives.”

May30,2017

“Each Memorial Day we remember and honor the men and women who made the ultimate sacrifice in defense of our country. Our soldiers, sailors, airmen, Marines, and Coast Guardsmen are deserving of our utmost respect. America’s freedom and liberty are possible thanks to their service to our country. As Ranking Member of the House Armed Services Committee, I am honored to advocate for our military personnel and their families. I will continue to fight to make sure all active duty military, national guard members, reservists, veterans and gold star spouses receive the support and services that they deserve.

“On Memorial Day, and throughout the year, we should show our continued gratitude to the servicemembers, veterans, and their families who help keep our country free and prosperous. We are forever grateful for their service and the critical role they have in building a more just and stable world.”

WASHINGTON – Congressman Adam Smith (D-WA) joined Congressman Ted Yoho (R-FL) in reintroducing The Economic Growth and Development Act, H.R. 2747. This legislation supports opportunities for the private sector to more effectively engage in foreign aid, driving enduring economic growth in countries that receive U.S. assistance. Companion legislation, S. 1274 was introduced in the U.S. Senate by U.S. Senators Johnny Isakson, R-Ga., David Perdue, R-Ga., and Chris Coons, D-Del.

May26,2017

“I am pleased to be an original co-sponsor of this this bicameral, bipartisan legislation to advance U.S. interests by creating opportunities for economic development and to improve planning and coordination of our international development efforts,” said Rep. Adam Smith.

“America is the most generous nation in the world when it comes to foreign aid,” said Rep. Ted Yoho, chairman of the House Foreign Affairs Subcommittee on Asia and the Pacific. “Today’s introduction of the bi-partisan Economic Growth and Development Act (EGDA) will ensure that our foreign aid dollars are used effectively and efficiently. By focusing on these objectives, we can transition recipient countries from aid to trade with the United States. I want to thank Rep. Adam Smith for joining me in introducing this bill. I would also like to thank Senator Isakson for introducing his companion bill in the Senate as well as his co-leads, Senators Coons and Perdue. Collectively we can refocus the delivery of U.S. foreign aid so it leads down a path of shared economic prosperity for all.”

Washington D.C. – Congressman Adam Smith released the following statement in response to President Trump’s budget proposal for Fiscal Year 2018:

May23,2017

“Instead of proposing a budget that makes available the tools Americans and this country need to succeed, the Trump Administration has proposed a disastrous and ideologically-driven budget that demonstrates this President’s complete lack of interest in or understanding of the realities of governing. The President has doubled down on his earlier campaign promises, and makes clear he wants to limit the government’s ability to improve the lives of working Americans and diminish our country’s role in the world.

“The budget released today would radically slash investments in programs that seek to expand broad-based economic opportunities and are effective at growing our economy. This proposal would up-end healthcare in the United States, undermine equitable universal education, underinvest in infrastructure, and inflict disastrous cuts to the Environmental Protection Agency and National Institutes of Health, among many other agencies and programs. The proposal would endanger the health, well-being, and success of Americans now and in the future. Furthermore, this proposal supports an isolationist worldview that ignores the importance of diplomacy and development abroad.

“The assumptions underlying the Administration’s budget are also based on budget gimmicks. Tax cuts do not pay for themselves and economic growth cannot be wished into existence. Instead, we must enact sound policy solutions and make strategic investments in the economy. It is telling that Members of Congress on both sides of the aisle have already stated that this budget proposal is dead on arrival.

“I fundamentally believe that government can, and should, be a force for good. We can responsibly invest in our future and grow the economy to ensure that America remains strong at home and abroad. I encourage the President and my colleagues in Congress to support a budget that focuses on investing in a better future for everyone.”